I'm basically like you, in that I'm primarily interested in my laptimes.
However, You don't have to buy stick shifters with the fanatic, the base wheels come with paddles, and that is all I use.
I don't even use the clutch pedal either in FM3..
But as I said, especially with the clubsport pedals, you do get an increase in performance, I was ok on the MS wheel, but within a day of getting the PWTS, I was improving my times, It was obvious that the pedals allowed smother control, but the wheel also was smoother, and I could adjust far more 'on the fly' which means I can now tweak my setup to even suit the car/track without any hassle..
What more can you say? The advantage is disproportionately expensive, but you also get cross platform compatibility, and a better experience.
Last edited: Jun 26, 2011